U.S. Federal Code says cash must be accepted for public charges, but a state official said the Real ID offices don't have the infrastructure to handle cash.
The bill would exempt several public agencies, including rape crisis centers, public defenders, health departments and children’s advocacy centers. Public schools are exempted from the bill, but universities are not.
State lawmakers, who met with local officials during a public meeting Monday morning, have been asked to help pass legislation that would allow former second-class cities like Hopkinsville to levy restaurant and alcohol taxes.
Sen. Whitney Westerfield, R-Crofton, said he proposed the law in reaction to states that allow abortions to take place later during pregnancy. Abortions resulting in a live birth are extremely rare, according to the CDC.
City officials estimate that required pension payments will result in a deficit of more than $5 million to the city's budget by 2024-25 if the council doesn't implement tax increases and/or spending cuts.
